Schulz has served as disaster recovery chief for the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (DES) since July 2014, managing and coordinating disaster recovery operations for the state. He previously worked as the department’s business manager and hazard mitigation grant specialist.

In his new role, Schulz will oversee the Division of Homeland Security within DES and will also serve as the state’s Homeland Security Advisor.

“Cody has a proven track record of managing crisis situations with sound judgment and strong communication skills,” Burgum said. “His extensive experience in leading staff through disasters and working collaboratively with multiple stakeholders throughout the state will benefit North Dakotans in times of crisis and calm.”

“Cody brings a diverse professional background to the position and has the confidence of agency staff,” said Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, DES director and adjutant general of the North Dakota National Guard. “His leadership and professionalism will serve the citizens of North Dakota well.”

Schulz will succeed current Homeland Security Director Greg Wilz, who is retiring after more than 12 years in the position. Burgum expressed his deepest gratitude for Wilz, who has directed response and recovery operations during 19 presidential declared disasters and numerous state declared emergencies.

“Greg’s leadership and knowledge have left an indelible mark on emergency management in our state and nation, and we wish him all the best in retirement,” Burgum said.

A New Salem native who lives in Mandan, Schulz earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Dickinson State University in 2004 and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of North Dakota in 2006. He is currently a Morton County commissioner, having served as chairman in 2016 and 2017, and played an integral role in helping to bring the Dakota Access Pipeline situation to a peaceful resolution.

“I am confident the leadership experience and training I’ve received while working with Maj. Gen. Dohrmann, Director Wilz and the rest of our outstanding staff at DES have prepared me well for this position, and I’m grateful to Gov. Burgum for the appointment,” Schulz said. “Emergency management and homeland security require a strong team, and I am excited to lead a skilled and professional group of people dedicated to ensuring North Dakota remains a safe place to live.”

The Department of Emergency Services is comprised of the Division of Homeland Security and State Radio Communications. The Division of Homeland Security is the state administrative agency for the federal Department of Homeland Security for receiving and managing Homeland Security Grant Programs. For more information, visit https://www.nd.gov/des/.